Coach Laquanda Dawkins Prince, a native of Shelby, North Carolina, has left an indelible mark on the world of basketball through her outstanding career as both a player and a coach. Laquanda's journey in the sport began in her hometown, where she quickly emerged as a basketball prodigy. Her exceptional talent earned her the honor of having her jersey retired at Crest Senior High School, a testament to her impact on the local basketball community.
In 1995, Prince embarked on her collegiate career at the prestigious University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Over the course of four remarkable years, she etched her name into the annals of Tar Heels history. As a student-athlete, Prince was a vital contributor to the success of the UNC women's basketball team. During her tenure, the Tar Heels secured three Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championships, showcasing their dominance in one of the nation's toughest conferences.
Not only a star on the court, Prince also shone in the classroom, earning recognition on the ACC Academic Honor Roll. Her dedication and excellence extended beyond the game, exemplifying her commitment to both academics and athletics. In acknowledgment of her outstanding leadership and sportsmanship, she was honored with the prestigious UNC Coaches' Award.
Following her illustrious collegiate career, Prince transitioned seamlessly into the world of coaching. She began her coaching journey as a graduate assistant at Gardner-Webb University, where she continued to foster her passion for the game and develop her coaching acumen. Her dedication and hard work quickly propelled her to greater heights.
In 2000, Prince  took on the role of Director of Basketball Operations at the University of Iowa, where she continued to make valuable contributions to the sport. Her tireless efforts and strategic insights made her an invaluable asset to the Hawkeyes program.
From 2003 to 2006, Prince  served as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Florida International University. Her recruiting prowess and coaching expertise contributed significantly to the program's success during her tenure.
In 2006, she accepted a lateral role at Winthrop University, where she continued to hone her coaching skills and inspire her players to achieve their best on and off the court.
However, her true calling came when she assumed the role of Head Coach at Kennesaw State University from 2010 to 2014. As a head coach, she showcased her leadership and mentorship abilities, shaping young athletes into accomplished players. Her tenure at Kennesaw State was marked by remarkable achievements and a commitment to excellence.
Following her successful stint at Kennesaw State, Prince accepted an assistant coaching position at Tennessee Tech University, where she continued to make a positive impact on the lives of her players and the basketball program.
In her ongoing journey, Prince  was named the head coach at Elizabeth City State University, bringing her expertise and dedication to guide the next generation of student-athletes.
Her coaching career also took her to Jacksonville University (FL), where she served as an assistant coach, imparting her basketball knowledge to aspiring players and contributing to the program's success.
Most recently, she assumed the role of Head Girls Basketball Coach at Yulee High School, further demonstrating her versatility as a coach and her dedication to nurturing young talent.
Throughout her illustrious career, Coach Laquanda Dawkins Prince has achieved remarkable success. Her coaching accolades include coaching six All-Americans, one National Player of the Year, one National Player of the Week, 10 All-Academic Student-Athletes, 19 All-Conference Selections, two Defensive Players of the Year, two Newcomers of the Year, nine All-Tournament Team members, a State Farm All-American, and one Hall of Fame Inductee.
Coach Prince's unwavering commitment to the sport of basketball and her dedication to the development of student-athletes have left an indomitable legacy. Her journey from a celebrated player in North Carolina to a respected coach at various institutions reflects her profound love for the game and her enduring impact on the basketball community. Laquanda Dawkins Prince is more than a coach; she is a beacon of inspiration for all who aspire to reach their full potential in the world of basketball.
The former Laquanda Dawkins, is married to Joseph Prince. The couple wedded on October 16, 2021.
Laquanda Dawkins Prince Head Coaching Career
2010-2014: Southern Polytechnic State University
2015-2016: Elizabeth City State University
2023-Present: Greensboro College Â
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